subject: Business Loans For Minority Women [print this page] Business Loans For Minority Women Business Loans For Minority Women
Minority business loans for women are granted through many government organizations and businesses, helping minority business owners to start a new business or expand and existing one.
Before you apply for any small business loans, it is important to first lay out a clear business plan. Minorities and women can get financing for their business ventures, but only if those ventures appear to be lucrative and professional. After all, it would be difficult to get a loan for a grasshopper farm if there is no clear method of doing business, no apparent market, etc. On the other hand, if you can demonstrate how you will operate the farm, where the grasshoppers will be sold, and the estimated cost vs. profit projections, you are much more likely to get a loan approval. In other words, make your business plan clear, concise, professional, and the best it can possibly be.
An exclusive federal agency, the Minority Business Development Agency, was created to foster the growth and establishment of minority and women-owned businesses. The MBDA networks with various funding venues such as Business Resource Centers, Native American Business Development Centers, and Minority Business Development Centers across the nation. These resource centers serve minority and women entrepreneurs through personalized assistance with marketing, business plans, technical assistance, management strategies, and financial planning. In addition, minority business loans for women can be secured through these agencies for business ventures.
Business loans are commonly granted to those who demonstrate professionalism, who establish advisory boards, who keep a close eye on various government funding sources, and who expect to win. At the same time, it is important to remember that some business loans are difficult to obtain simply because of the way they are designed, such as loans for seniors in business or for work-at-home enterprises. Sadly, the preconceived notions or prejudices against minorities, senior citizens, women, etc. are inaccurate at the least, and blatantly ignorant at the most. By demonstrating true professionalism in all aspects, you will be able to overcome these prejudices and gain the loan you deserve.
There are numerous minority business loan programs across the United States, as well as abroad. Any entrepreneur who needs assistance in putting together a business plan, loan application, or any other business-related issue can find help through their local small business development centers. These agencies provide personal attention to minority and women business owners. In addition, they often grant minority business loans for women or ethnic minorities when loans have been denied through traditional lenders.
The Small Business Administration also aids in the development and funding of small businesses. Although the agency does not directly loan money to business owners, it does serve to guarantee the loan through a traditional lender. Entrepreneurs must apply for an SBA-guaranteed loan through their local agency. Once they are approved, they can seek out an SBA approved lender. Most banks can serve as a potential lender, but eligibility requirements may vary between institutions. Among the countless SBA approved banks, Bank of America ranks the highest when it comes to customer service and the granting of minority business loans for women and ethnic minorities.
Another woman and minority-friendly bank is Wells Fargo, which has agreed to lend as much as $100,000 dollars to any women, Latino, or African-American owned business who meets certain business criteria.
In addition to traditional banks, small business investment companies provide minority business loans for women on a regular basis. These companies are managed investment firms and are privately owned, offering startup financing and venture capital for small businesses. Small business investment companies are strictly regulated and licensed by the SBA, providing added peace of mind and security for the borrower.
Author: Rebecca Game is a 30 year entrepreneur and owner of Digital-Women, an online networking community for women in business. Visit: Digital Women- Loans for Women.
